Free Primary Healthcare won't cover referrals to higher facilities - Health Minister
Kwabena Mintah Akandoh clarified that Ghana's free primary healthcare programme will not replace the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), warning that patients referred to higher-level hospitals will still require valid insurance coverage. Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on April 13, Mr. Akandoh stated, "When you are sick, and you go to the primary healthcare facility, and you are referred to a regional hospital, you cannot go and say, 'Because there's free primary healthcare, they should take care of you free of charge. It will not happen."
The nationwide rollout of the Free Primary Healthcare programme is scheduled for April 15, 2026. The programme will cover essential curative services such as treatment for malaria, diarrhoea, respiratory infections and minor procedures, as well as preventive and promotive care delivered through community outreach. More advanced care beyond the primary level will remain under the NHIS. NHIS enrolment has increased from about 57 per cent to 66 per cent within a year. Patients will be able to access services at CHPS compounds, health centres, polyclinics and selected facilities under the Christian Health Association of Ghana. Some accredited pharmacies and licensed chemical sellers will also provide diagnostic services at no cost to patients. Individuals will be required to present valid identification, including the Ghana Card, NHIS card or voter ID.
The government has allocated GH₵1.5 billion in the 2026 budget to support the rollout, beginning with about 130 to 150 underserved districts before expanding nationwide by 2028. The initiative forms part of a broader effort involving key institutions such as the Ghana Health Service and other agencies under the Ministry of Health.
Quick Summary
Health Minister Akandoh clarified the scope of Ghana's upcoming free primary healthcare programme. He emphasized its limits, especially regarding referrals - hinting at the need for continued NHIS coverage.
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